nysepost.com

This year's flu vaccine estimated to be less effective: CDC

Jan 12 2018

Of the more than 100 people who have died from the flu so far this season, 13 are children.

Harris County Health has confirmed there have been two deaths in the county as well. Out of this, 13 of the cases resulted in deaths, according to statistics from the Flu Express, a weekly report by the Centre for Health Protection on local influenza activities.

A total of 72 people from schools, and residential care homes for the elderly and disabled were said to be affected by the flu, according to the Flu Express statistics.

As a geriatric specialist, I'm proud to see that Ontario will be providing seniors the high-dose flu vaccine starting this 2018-2019 flu season. "Sometimes they have underlying medical conditions and they don't tend to go to a hospital or a doctor in a timely fashion".

Scotland's Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Gregor Smith has encouraged people eligible for free vaccination - including the elderly, young children, mothers-to-be and health workers - to ensure they are protected from the disease. Texas is second only to Arkansas in the percentage of doctor visits linked to the flu.

Although flu hospitalizations can climb much higher, there have been two years in the past five where the number for the entire flu season was actually lower.

We know you've been busy with the holidays, spending time in airports and on road trips to see family and friends.

The non-profit immunization group recently received a shipment of over 2,000 flu vaccines for adults, and has an additional stockpile reserved exclusively for children who do not have health insurance or can not otherwise afford the vaccine.

"We have a lot of patients that come in with the typical flu symptoms", Pharmacist Jarron Yee said. "Although influenza season usually peaks between December and February, flu activity can occur as late as May, which means it is not too late to get vaccinated".

Mr. Gastafson said while the flu shot is only about 10 to 15 percent effective, he also recommends getting it. Of the 421 students with flu-like illness, 118 of them were confirmed flu cases.

"The flu vaccine isn't ideal, but it's our best tool", Lakey said. Despite the increase, they said they're prepared to fight the flu for all residents in need.